Flick vows to shield Yamal: “If he slips up, I’ll protect him”

Barcelona—With a top-of-the-table meeting against Atlético de Madrid looming, Hansi Flick stepped in front of the microphones on Friday and delivered the clearest possible message about Lamine Yamal: the 18-year-old winger will be allowed to play without fear, and any backlash will stop at the coach’s desk.

“He tried everything to win,” Flick said, referring to the teenager’s most recent outing. “His role building our play is fundamental.”

After reviewing video of the match, the German was effusive, describing Yamal’s ability to glide past multiple defenders as “incredible.” Yet Flick’s principal concern was not technical; it was emotional. Yamal, he noted, is “an emotional person, and that is a good thing,” before urging the media to dial down the “noise” that can suffocate a still-developing talent.

The manager’s strongest pledge came when the conversation turned to risk-taking. Yamal’s instinct to attempt the audacious pass or dribble will not be curbed, Flick insisted. “If he makes mistakes, I will always be there to protect him,” he said, underlining a protective philosophy that has quickly become a hallmark of his tenure at the club.

The statement reinforces the growing bond between the first-team bench and La Masia’s latest jewel, ensuring that Barcelona’s youngest difference-maker can keep expressing himself on the sport’s biggest stage.